HC Deb 13 March 1907 vol 171 cc26-7
MR. DOLAN (Leitrim, N.)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India whether he will state the nature of the offence for which the proprietor and editor of the Panjabee, published in Lahore, have been sentenced, the former to two years imprisonment and a fine of £60, the latter to six months imprisonment and a fine of £6.

MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSE

The offence is reported to have been one under the section of the Indian Penal Code which deals with promoting, or attempting to promote, feelings of enmity or hatred between different classes of His Majesty's subjects. The case is under appeal.

*MR. REES (Montgomery Boroughs)

May I ask if there was any circumstance of extenuation in this false charge of murder, except that it was brought against an innocent Englishman?

MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSE

I think it would be very improper for me to attempt to pronounce an opinion on any case which has yet to be decided by the Judges.

SIR H. COTTON (Nottingham, E.)

Has the hon. Gentleman heard the result of the appeal?

MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSE

No, Sir; as soon as I do I will communicate it to my hon. friend.

MR. DOLAN

Is the Indian law as to freedom of the Press the same as that in England?

MR. CHARLES HOBHOUSE

asked for notice of the Question.